Reviewers liked that the 2010 Avalanche has refined road manners and a comfortable ride. They found the V8 engine provides sufficient power in most cases, though some expressed a desire for more power for highway passing. Two- and four-wheel drive were both available when the Avalanche was new, and a Z71 off-road package was offered as well. A two-wheel drive Avalanche achieves 15/21 mpg city/highway, which is average for the class. The Avalanche can tow up to 8,100 pounds, which is less than what most regular full-size pickups can tow.

Reviewers were pleased with the Avalanche’s cabin, and said it is well-constructed with upscale materials. The Avalanche is a five-seat (six with available front bench seat) crew cab and features GM’s Midgate, which drops the partition at the back of the cab to expand the length of the cargo bed into the back seats, a feature reviewers liked. Keep in mind that the Avalanche’s back seats are unusable with the Midgate lowered. Reviewers said that both the front and back seats provide ample space and comfort. The Avalanche comes standard with a CD stereo with satellite radio, a USB port and an auxiliary input jack. Features that were optional or available on higher trims when it was new include Bluetooth, dual-zone climate control, an upgraded Bose stereo, navigation, leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, a backup camera, a power sunroof and a rear-seat entertainment system.

Chevrolet Avalanche Pictures

Other Trucks to Consider

The 2010 Dodge Ram 1500 was well-liked by reviewers for its high-quality interior and smooth ride that some critics said is among the best in the class. While it doesn’t have the Midgate feature, the Ram 1500 offered RamBox lockable storage compartments on the sidewalls of the cargo bed, which reviewers liked.

Critics liked the 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 for its well-built interior and potent engines. The Silverado 1500 is a conventional pickup, so it doesn’t offer the Avalanche’s blend of SUV and pickup, but it can tow more and is available with a longer cargo bed.